The Art of Bimini Fishing Charters & Big
January 12, 2026
Fort Lauderdale
2 photos
Wahoo
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Trip Summary
Trip Summary
Bahamas Fishing, Higher Fees, Fewer Boats The Best Fishing We’ve Seen in Years, Bimini Fishing Charters
Over the past year, traveling to the Bahamas by boat has changed dramatically. New Bahamian Customs, Immigration, and fishing license fees have increased the overall cost of entry for private vessels and charter boats alike. In many cases, these increases have resulted in 250–350% higher total entry costs, causing a noticeable decline in the number of boaters crossing over to the islands — especially to Bimini.
While higher costs have slowed overall traffic, they’ve also created an unexpected silver lining for serious anglers and luxury charter guests: Bimini fishing is as wide open as it’s been in years.
The Reality: Rising Costs Are Keeping Boats Home.
Recent changes to Bahamian entry requirements now include higher fees for:
Customs & Immigration processing
Fishing permits
Vessel cruising permits
For many private boat owners, especially those making shorter trips or weekend crossings, these added expenses have made Bahamas runs far less frequent. As a result, overall boat traffic to Bimini has dropped significantly compared to previous seasons.
Fewer boats, fewer lines in the water, and less pressure on the fishery — which leads us to the real story.
The Upside: Bimini Fishing
Less Pressure = Incredible Fishing
With dramatically fewer boats fishing the waters around Bimini, the results have been undeniable:
Wahoo are less pressured and feeding aggressively
Pelagics are holding longer on productive edges
Reefs and wrecks are seeing far less daily traffic
Cleaner water, calmer conditions, and more consistent bites
Simply put, this is the kind of fishing anglers dream about — the way Bimini used to be before heavy traffic became the norm.
For our guests aboard our Luxury VIP 61’ Viking Sportfish, this means more action, higher-quality opportunities, and a far more exclusive experience on the water.
Why a Luxury VIP Charter Makes More Sense Than Ever?
While costs have increased across the board, charter guests benefit from simplicity and transparency. When you fish aboard a professionally run luxury charter:
Customs & immigration logistics are handled for you
Proper fishing permits are already in place
Fuel, tackle, and tournament-grade electronics are included
You enjoy white-glove service, comfort, and safety
Instead of navigating rising fees and paperwork yourself, you simply step aboard and fish — while taking advantage of some of the best conditions Bimini has seen in years.
A Rare Window of Opportunity
Fishing cycles through peaks and valleys, and right now Bimini is in a golden window. With fewer boats making the crossing, the fishery is rebounding fast, offering:
Less competition
More consistent strikes
A true big-game Bahamas experience
For anglers who value quality over crowds — and for families, corporate groups, or serious fishermen seeking a luxury, stress-free Bahamas adventure — this is the moment to go.
Final Word
Yes, the cost of entering the Bahamas has increased — and many boaters have stayed home. But for those who do make the trip aboard a professionally operated luxury charter, the reward is exceptional fishing, fewer boats, and a level of exclusivity that’s becoming increasingly rare.
Bimini is wide open — and now is the time to experience it the right way.